University of Florida researchers said new data shows they're growing higher quality cascade hops at their center in Wimauma than the number one variety from the Pacific Northwest.

"This is a viable agricultural development," said Desiree Chubb, Director of Quality at Three Daughters Brewing Co. "From the beginning, no one thought it was going to work."​

Chubb was one of dozens of local brewers and farmers invited to Hops Field Day at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center​ located at 14625 County Road 672 in Wimauma. Dr. Shinsuke Agehara, assistant professor of horticulture, said researchers have been growing cascade hops at the facility for about five years.

"Because our growing conditions are so different from the Pacific Northwest," he said. "We want to see if the quality is different." ​

Photo by Josh Rojas/Spectrum Bay News 9

Agehara said their latest test results show the Florida hops have an alpha acid level of more than 8%, compared to the same cascade hops from the Pacific Northwest with levels of 4.5% to 7%. Acid levels are directly related to the bitterness taste in beer and the higher the better.

"So now our alpha acid of our cascade is even higher than the cascade coming from the Pacific Northwest," said Agehara.​ "We are really excited that the hops we grow in Florida can provide unique aroma to the beer."

Researchers have been giving away their hops to brewers for testing. Chubb said Three Daughters Brewing offers a variety of beers made with Florida hops. One brand is sold under the name "Florida Hopped."

"We've actually made, I think, about 9 different styles of beer," she said. "Put them on tap at Three Daughters." 

Researchers said they're starting a breeding program and hope to create a variety of unique Florida hops.

UF growing higher quality hops than #1 variety from Pacific Northwest